The inner light
Text and Pix by Dushiyanthini Kanagasabapathipillai
Beautiful fresh flower garlands made for the festival
“Deepavali” is a celebration and joy and wisdom, and will be celebrated on the 4th of November 2021 around the world, with great pomp and enthusiasm. “Deepavali” is popularly known as the “Festival of Lights”.
It is celebrated with sweets, savouries, firecrackers, greetings, gifts and lights. The annual festival is usually celebrated in late October or early November according to the new moon, has been predominantly celebrated by the Hindus since the time immemorial.
“Legend has it that, Lord Vishnu defeated the demon King “Narakaasuran”, and killed him on this day. The day came to be known as “Deepavali”. Significant for the celebration of the victory of good over evil; overcoming spiritual darkness; and the renewal of life. The most spiritual meaning for the festival is “awareness of the inner light”. The sparkle of “Deepavali” lifts inner spirit” says Sitsabesa Kurukkal, the Chief Priest of Sammaankodu Sri Kathirvelauthaswamy temple, also known as the Maanikka Pillaiyaar temple in Bambalapitty.
Newly married couples celebrate “Thalai Deepavali” (the first “Deepavali” festival celebrated as husband and wife), with special gifts and sweets from their relatives. Hindus wear new clothes, throng temples, serve sweets and savouries, exchange gifts, and visit friends and relatives on the “Deepavali” festival day, and wish each other “Let the Lights Shine forever”.
Ghee lamps are lit
Traditional Hindu welcome
Lines of lights to decorate the temple tower
Lord Ganesh is dressed up for the festival
Temple is packed with devotees
Devotees worship in Bambalapitty
A male devotee carrying a tray of items used for religious rituals
Variety of sweets and savouires served on the festival day
Garland maker is seen busy meeting the demand during the festival
An array of firecrackers
Pigeons peck rice in a temple compound